In a clash that lived up to all expectations Raithby Universals emerged victorious over Sir Lowrians on Saturday 14 June, securing the Northern League championship title in a dramatic 23-20 triumph.
The highly-anticipated encounter, featuring two previously unbeaten sides, drew a massive crowd to Raithby Sports Ground, including Stellenbosch Mayor Jeremy Fasser and several council members, all eager to witness who would claim bragging rights and the coveted championship.
Sir Lowrians had an early opportunity to draw first blood with a penalty directly in front of the posts, but their usually reliable kicker, Randy Brinkhuis, uncharacteristically pushed the attempt wide. It was Raithby who capitalised first, with seasoned flyhalf Brandon Manuel, clearly keen to make a statement against his former club, slotting a penalty to open the scoring.
Sir Low quickly responded with a converted try, showcasing their attacking prowess. A major turning point in the first half saw the visitors lose their captain and eighthman to a red card. Despite being a man down, Sir Lowrians impressively rallied, finding their rhythm and adding another converted try and two penalties to their tally. Manuel could only manage one more penalty for Raithby before the break, leaving the half-time score at 6-20 in favour of Sir Lowrians, who seemed poised to take the spoils.
The second half began with RU showing renewed determination. Manuel quickly added another penalty, narrowing the deficit to 9-20. Fifteen minutes into the half, the home team made several strategic changes that paid dividends. Soon after, they crossed for a converted try, bringing the score to a tantalising 16-20, with Sir Lowrians still clinging to the lead.
As the match entered its dying stages Raithby pressed hard, creating numerous scoring opportunities that often led to mistakes. With just five minutes remaining, it appeared Sir Low were destined to be crowned champions. However, RU seized a final opportunity. After Sir Lowrians kicked the ball downfield, the home team launched a counter-attack, moving the ball from side to side. This brilliant passage of play culminated in their inspirational eighthman and captain, Ian Kampies, crashing over the tryline for the match-winning score. Manuel, cool under pressure, converted the try, pushing RU into a 23-20 lead as the final whistle blew.
The victory not only secured the Northern League title for RU, it also saw them maintain their unbeaten record. Both teams will now compete in the Top 9 Promotional League, which commences next month. They will join seven other clubs in vying for promotion to Super League C.
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